PALPATION Meaning and
Definition
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Palpation is a medical term that refers to the technique of examining or evaluating a patient's body through touch or pressure. It involves gently touching or feeling different areas of the body, typically with the hands or fingers, to assess various physical characteristics such as texture, temperature, and the presence of abnormalities. This method is commonly employed by healthcare professionals, particularly physiotherapists, chiropractors, and doctors, to gather information about a patient's health or to identify potential issues or abnormalities.
Palpation is frequently used in the context of physical examinations to assess the condition of organs, tissues, muscles, and joints. By applying pressure or manipulating specific areas, a practitioner can detect tenderness, swelling, masses, or irregularities in the body's structures. This hands-on evaluation helps medical professionals to make diagnoses, monitor progress during treatment, or determine the appropriate course of action.
Palpation can be performed either superficially, where the practitioner applies gentle pressure on the body's surface, or more deeply, where they may need to penetrate deeper layers of tissue to assess internal structures. The technique requires sensitivity, dexterity, and anatomical knowledge to accurately interpret the information gained through touch.
In summary, palpation is a diagnostic method in healthcare that involves physically examining the body through touch or pressure. It enables practitioners to gather information about a patient's health, assess physical characteristics, and identify abnormalities or issues that may require further investigation or treatment.
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The act of feeling; examination by the sense of touch.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Other Common Misspellings for PALPATION
Etymology of PALPATION
The word "palpation" comes from the Latin verb "palpare", which means "to touch, stroke, or pat". The -ation suffix is used to form a noun from a verb, indicating the process or act of. Therefore, "palpation" refers to the action or process of touching or feeling something, typically the examination of the body by touch to evaluate its condition or to detect abnormalities.
Similar spelling words for PALPATION
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